Which statement about the CARD's purpose is true?

Which statement about the CARD's purpose is true?

• A. It Is Completed Before Any Cost Analysis Steps
• B. It Is Completed During Step 1 and Defines Estimation Rules and Assumptions
• C. It Is Used Only After System Deployment
• D. It Is Optional for ACAT 1 Systems

Answer: (B)

The CARD establishes the framework for how a program’s cost estimate will be built. It is created early, in Step 1, and it specifies the estimation rules, the data sources to be used, the estimation methods to apply, and the key assumptions that will govern the cost analysis. This upfront guidance ensures every part of the cost estimate follows a consistent approach, making the analysis repeatable and auditable as the program progresses. It isn’t something used only after deployment, nor something optional for major programs; rather, it sets the foundation for the entire cost estimation effort. That is why describing its purpose as being completed during Step 1 and defining estimation rules and assumptions is the best answer.

The CARD establishes the framework for how a program’s cost estimate will be built. It is created early, in Step 1, and it specifies the estimation rules, the data sources to be used, the estimation methods to apply, and the key assumptions that will govern the cost analysis. This upfront guidance ensures every part of the cost estimate follows a consistent approach, making the analysis repeatable and auditable as the program progresses. It isn’t something used only after deployment, nor something optional for major programs; rather, it sets the foundation for the entire cost estimation effort. That is why describing its purpose as being completed during Step 1 and defining estimation rules and assumptions is the best answer.